Statement on the election of Pope Leo XIV

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, of the United States has been elected the 267th pope, and he is now known as Pope Leo XIV. He is from Chicago, Illinois, and is the first ever pope from the United States. Addressing the crowd in St. Peter’s Square, he said, “we have to seek together to be a missionary church. A church that builds bridges and dialogue”; and called on people to “show our charity” to others “and be in dialogue with love”.

We at the Parliament of World’s Religions extend our heartfelt wishes to Pope Leo XIV, and hope that he is granted all the strength, compassion, and wisdom the world needs at this time from a global leader.